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Aquamation
Aquamation is also known as “water cremation”, but the technical term is alkaline hydrolysis. This technology may be new to some, but in fact it has been around for quite a while. The process was developed by a farmer named Amos Herbert Hanson in 1888. His goal was to harness all the nutrients produced from deceased cattle and livestock into a liquid form, which could then be dispersed over all of his crops as an effective fertilizing agent. He considered this an enhancement to the natural circle of life. He patented this technology and it is now used in various ways at numerous well known institutions throughout the world.
The process uses gentle water flow, temperature and alkalinity to accelerate the breakdown of organic materials. This is the same breakdown process as when a body is laid to rest in the soil. Consider this as a catalyst to mother-nature’s pure intentions. What would naturally take months now takes place in a matter of about 20 hours. Upon completion, we are left with a clean intact skeletal system, which is then processed into the ashes and returned to the family or scattered into nature. The end result is the same as traditional cremation, but the process is much gentler and eco-friendly using no fossil fuels, producing no flame or releasing harmful pollutants into the environment. Our process uses 90% less energy than that of traditional cremation, leaving a much smaller carbon footprint within our environment.
Alkaline hydrolysis completely breaks down all bacteria, viruses, prions and medication. It neutralizes diseases and illnesses such as; rabies, parvovirus, bird flu, mad cow (CJD) and chronic wasting disease. It also destroys any drugs associated with cancer treatments or euthanasia. This eliminates the worry of these things leaching back into the soil or back into the environment. The same process is used for safe disposal of biohazardous materials. The final liquid output is considered a sterile mix of water and basic organic compounds such as salts, sugars, peptides, and amino acids. This is neutralized to a safe pH before discharge. It is completely safe to release back into the water supply and is known to be an exceptional fertilizer.
Anything that is done with the ashes after traditional flame cremation, can also be done after the aquamation. Options include; placing the ashes in an urn and returning to the family, scattering ashes back into nature, burying the ashes with a tree or wildflowers, placing a portion in smaller keepsakes, jewelry or blown glass art. Some choose to do a combination of those mentioned. There are numerous options and what works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for another. There is no right or wrong, as all us grieve differently, so naturally we memorialize differently.
Is it understandable to want to know as much about the process of pet aquamation as possible before choosing it. At Peaceful Pastures, we understand that this is still a fairly new option, so we are more than happy to answer any questions you might have. Here are a few of the most common questions that we get asked about pet aquamation.
Why have I never heard of aquamation? Is this a new process?
Aquamation has been around since the late 1800s. It has mostly been used in agriculture, medical schools and biological labs until recently where it has become a more widely used process of disposition. It is recognized by the Cremation Association of North America as a trusted method of cremation amongst professionals.
Is aquamation legal in all the states?
Aquamation is an approved method of animal and livestock disposition in all 50 states. In Ohio it is a preferred method of animal disposition (ORC 941.14). There are currently 28 states where aquamation is legal for humans. Ohio is currently not one of those states. There are still only limited providers who offer these services for humans in the U.S.
Are the ashes safe to handle after aquamation?
The ashes are completely safe to handle. The bone mineral that remains after the process is rendered free of any illness, disease or medication that could be considered harmful to you or other pets. It is always good practice to be careful, as some ash remnants could be accidentally inhaled or get into your eyes, which could cause discomfort or a possible eye abrasion.
How much water is used for the process?
The conservation of resources such as water is important to all of us. With our system, the low flow of water needed, as well as the cleaning of the chamber after use dispenses about as much water as a typical family would use in a normal day. The water usage for each pet would be about equal to giving that pet a bath. So, the local water company would not notice any difference between our usage versus the typical household or business.
What happens to the water/liquid after a cycle is complete?
The water is returned to the ecosystem via the normal wastewater treatment facility, just as all funeral homes in the United States, Canada, and many other parts of the world do during the embalming process. The aquamation process produces a completely sterile solution of amino acids, sugars, nutrients, salts, and soap in a water solution. These are the byproducts of natural decomposition. In our facility, the majority of this liquid will be tanked and donated to local farms and municipalities to use as a fertilizing agent.
What happens to metal or surgical implants?
Metal or surgical implants such as screws, plates, hip replacements or pacemakers remain intact after the process. They will be donated to a medical refinery where they will be recycled into new and usable materials.
What makes aquamation a more environmentally friendly option?
With aquamation, there are no direct emissions of harmful greenhouse gases or mercury to the atmosphere. This process does not burn any fossil fuels. It is very energy efficient, with greater than 90% energy savings compared to flame cremation, with 1/10th of the carbon footprint.
What can I do with the ashes after aquamation?
Anything that can be done with flame cremation ashes can be done with aquamation ashes. Some families keep the ashes in an urn, placed in a special location at home. There are numerous memorial options, such as; smaller keepsakes, jewelry pieces, hand blown glass memorials, ceramic art pieces, memorial plantings for your garden, and many more. Some families choose to scatter in a special place or a combination of all of the above.
Can I bring my pet to your facility?
Of course, we allow families to bring their pet to us if they wish. We just ask that you call ahead of time to make arrangements to do so, as our schedule can be quite unpredictable. We want to ensure that someone is there and readily available to help you once you arrive. Calling ahead will help us to ensure a more seamless transfer into our care.
What type of pets do you cremate?
We offer service to any and all pets. From hamsters, parrots, and reptiles to more traditional dogs and cats. Even smaller farm animals, such as goats, pigs and llamas. Our machine capacity is 550 lbs. Please feel free to call us with any questions.